James Robert Hein

James R. Hein, age 79, of Calumet City, Illinois (also of Florida and Wisconsin), passed away on March 18, 2026, in Merrillville, Indiana. He was born on August 16, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, to John F. Hein and Margaret M. Hein.

James is survived by his three children, James J. Hein, Jeffrey A. Hein, and Jennifer L. Hein, whom he affectionately called “Missy Two Shoes.” He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 7 great‑grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, William (Judith) Hein and Thomas Hein; his sisters, Rosemary Matusiak and Joan Carlson; his sister‑in‑law, Lynda Hein; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved brother, Joseph Hein; and his sister, Mary Catherine Hein.

James grew up in Lansing, Illinois, and attended T.F. South High School. He proudly served in the United States Navy and later retired as a Lieutenant with the Calumet City Fire Department. He was deeply loved and respected by his close friends and the community he continued to serve long after his active duty years.

James enjoyed fishing, boating, golfing, building just about anything, and collecting antiques. A natural teacher, he generously shared his knowledge on any subject and always made sure everyone kept a clean workbench. He loved traveling between his homes to spend time with close friends and will be remembered for his storytelling, charm, humor, and soft heart.

Services and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an organization of your choice supporting Parkinson’s disease research or to the Department of Veterans Affairs, an organization he was especially proud to be part of.

Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit the online guestbook and obituary at www.SMITSFH.com.